Be a Part of the Story
For 25 years, thanks to our supportive community, The Land Trust for Tennessee has led the charge in conserving our state’s natural beauty. This milestone has us reflecting on the future of conservation in Tennessee and the importance of stewardship in upholding our commitment to protect irreplaceable landscapes.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to develop our next strategic plan, advance a strong pipeline of conservation projects, and work with landowners to preserve the values of the land we protect.
We invite you to celebrate with us by renewing your support, attending an event, or discussing a conservation project with our team. Stay tuned for more ways to get involved and conservation highlights throughout the year!
25 Projects for 25 Years
Throughout our 25 years, we’ve completed hundreds of conservation projects, from the mountains of East Tennessee to public parks in West Tennessee, and the rolling hills in between. Each project tells a unique story of love for our state’s irreplaceable land and the importance of conserving it for future generations.
To celebrate our 25th, we’re excited to share 25 conservation projects that showcase the diversity of our work. Each project represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to protect the natural and historic landscapes that define our state’s identity. Join us in celebrating these achievements and recommitting ourselves to the vital work of conservation as we look ahead to the next chapter of our journey.
Click on the images below to read the stories.
Timeline of Key Milestones
The Land Trust for Tennessee is founded by Phil Bredesen and a group of visionary conservation leaders. Jean C. Nelson serves as the organization’s first Executive Director.
First conservation successes takes place in Leiper’s Fork with the Preston family in December 1999.
Glen Leven Farm is given to The Land Trust in 2006 by Susan M. West, a descendant of Nashville settler Thomas Thompson who came to Nashville with James Robertson in the late 1780s.
The Land Trust expands its statewide presence and opens an office in Chattanooga.
The Land Trust for Tennessee is the first land trust in Tennessee to earn accreditation by The Land Trust Alliance Accreditation Commission. We have continued to be re-accredited ever since.
The Land Trust reaches a huge milestone: 100,000 acres conserved across the state.
Jeanie Nelson retires, Liz McLaurin takes over as President & CEO.
The Land Trust for Tennessee moves its offices from Cummins Station to Glen Leven Farm.
The Land Trust for Tennessee publishes its data-driven strategic conservation plan, Forever Tennessee.
The Land Trust for Tennessee receives the 2020 Land Trust Alliance National Land Trust Excellence Award for its strategic and visionary work in conserving land that matters to people and places across Tennessee.
The Land Trust for Tennessee celebrates its 25th anniversary having protected 136,000 through over 450 projects in 76 counties.
Gallery of photos from the past 25 years.
